Oregon is the fourth largest wine producing state in the nation (behind #1 California, #2 Washington, and #3 New York). The western border of Oregon is the Pacific Ocean. To the south is California, and to the north is Washington State. There is a beautiful valley that lies between the Coastal Mountain Range (west) and the Cascade Mountains that run through the state (inland east). The latitude allows for long hours of summer sunshine, but the winds can bring in some pretty damp ocean weather. Some say that the conditions in Oregon are reminiscent of those in Burgundy, France. It is no wonder that the white Chardonnay and the red Pinot Noir grapes are standouts here. Another signature white is Pinot Gris, a grape that also produces great wines in Alsace, France. After a string of fantastic vintages, its time for us to taste some of the state’s best!
